The Best of Waterford

The South East of Ireland is home to some of the loveliest coastline in Ireland, but when you’re in the area don’t overlook the fantastic city of Waterford. It’s a great place to base yourself on your trip to the South East.

Click here for hotel details for some great, centrally located budget rooms in the city. While you’re in town, make sure you see these fascinating historical places of interest, to make the most of your time here:

Reginald’s Tower

Waterford’s history dates all the way back to Viking times, and to get a feel for history of the city, climb this defence tower in the Viking Triangle for great photo opportunities and views of the city. Since the Vikings left it’s been used as a prison, a mint, a munitions store, a royal castle and a Chief Constable’s residence before being opened to the public in the 1950s.

Waterford Treasures Medieval Museum

If nearby Reginald’s Tower has whetted your appetite for all things ancient, then this museum, opened in 2012, should be the next stop on your tour of historic Waterford. Immerse yourself in Waterford’s medieval past by wandering around independently or opt for one of the guided tours for a greater insight into the treasures on display.

Mount Congreve House and Gardens

This grand, white 18th century stately home in the outskirts of the city is impressive enough but the main reason to visit is its stunning gardens. There are seven acres of loveliness to explore featuring myriad plants and flowers – camellias, magnolias and rhododendrons feature strongly. If it’s a nice day, there’s nowhere prettier for a relaxing stroll and a coffee.

As you’ll discover when you visit Waterford, this is a city that’s crammed with fascinating places of historical interest – and the more you explore, the more you’ll come across!